R.I.P. Ardent Studios Founder and Big Star Producer John Fry

Fry founded Memphis institution Ardent Records in 1959. In addition to running a Christian label (Ardent Records) and a mainstream one (Ardent Music), Fry owned Ardent Studios, which was used by recording artists like Bob Dylan, Led Zeppelin, B.B. King and Stevie Ray Vaughan. In more recent years, R.E.M., the White Stripes, Cat Power and M.I.A. recorded there, as well.

Fry was best known for his work with Big Star, serving as a mentor and producer to the band on their first three albums: #1 Record (1972), Radio City (1974) and Third/Sister Lovers (1978). Last month, he was inducted into the Memphis Music Hall of Fame, alongside Big Star.

He went into cardiac arrest at his home yesterday morning (December 18) and passed away at Methodist East hospital, according to The Commercial Appeal. He was 69 years old.